Population Characteristics
According to the latest census, Shawinigan has a population of around 49,620 people. The city's population is in increased. Between 2016 and 2021, the population of Shawinigan has increased by ▲ 0.55%.
| Population in 2016 | Population in 2021 | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 49,349 | 49,620 | +0.55% |
2026 Population Projection
Based on the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 0.11% observed between the 2016 and 2021 censuses, Shawinigan's population is projected to reach approximately 49,892 people by 2026, with a projected population density of around 68.35 people per km².
| Population in 2021 | Projected Population in 2026 | Projected Density in 2026 (per km²) |
|---|---|---|
| 49,620 | 49,892 | 68.35 |
This projection is an estimate calculated by CAPopulation from the compound annual growth rate between the 2016 and 2021 censuses. Official 2026 complete census data expected to be released in late 2027.
Shawinigan Population Trend & Context
Shawinigan had a 2021 census population of 49,620 — an increase of 271 (▲ 0.55%) people from the 49,349 recorded in 2016.
The city's population has remained relatively stable over this period, reflecting broader trends in mid-sized Quebec cities. The city's median age of 54.4 years — above the national median of 41.9 — suggests a mature, established community rather than a rapidly growing one.
Population By Genders
The male population of Shawinigan is around 24,165 while the female population is around 25,455.
Of the 49,620 total population in Shawinigan, the largest gender is female with around 25,455 female within the population.
| Male | Female | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| 24,165 | 25,455 | +5.07% |
Is Shawinigan a Good Place to Live?
Based on 2021 Statistics Canada Census data, here's how Shawinigan compares across key quality-of-life indicators — measured against Quebec, its own province. Draw your own conclusions from the actual numbers.
Employment & Economy
Income & Affordability
Commute
Housing Character
Household Composition
Source: Statistics Canada, 2021 Census of Population.
Shawinigan Population Compared to Quebec
Quebec's population in 2021 was 8,501,833, spread across the area. Here's how Shawinigan compares to the city's key indicators:
| Indicator | Shawinigan | Quebec |
|---|---|---|
| Median household income | $53,600 | $72,500 |
| Unemployment rate | 7.5% | 7.6% |
| Median age | 54.4 | 43.2 |
| Bachelor's degree or higher | 13.3% | 26.5% |
| Immigrants (%) | 2.1% | 14.6% |
Population by Age Characteristics
Shawinigan has an aging population. The majority of the population is people aged 60 to 64 years old, accounting for 10.30% of the total population. The city median age is 54.40.
| Data | Male | Female | Difference | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60 to 64 years | 2,485 10.30% | 2,640 10.40% | 5.87% | 5,125 10.30% |
| 65 to 69 years | 2,340 9.70% | 2,365 9.30% | 1.06% | 4,700 9.50% |
| 55 to 59 years | 1,990 8.20% | 2,055 8.10% | 3.16% | 4,045 8.20% |
| 70 to 74 years | 1,815 7.50% | 2,000 7.90% | 9.25% | 3,815 7.70% |
| 75 to 79 years | 1,315 5.40% | 1,475 5.80% | 10.85% | 2,790 5.60% |
| 40 to 44 years | 1,380 5.70% | 1,295 5.10% | 6.16% | 2,675 5.40% |
| 50 to 54 years | 1,340 5.50% | 1,340 5.30% | 0.00% | 2,675 5.40% |
| 35 to 39 years | 1,270 5.30% | 1,280 5.00% | 0.78% | 2,555 5.10% |
| 30 to 34 years | 1,225 5.10% | 1,195 4.70% | 2.45% | 2,415 4.90% |
| 45 to 49 years | 1,195 4.90% | 1,180 4.60% | 1.26% | 2,380 4.80% |
| 25 to 29 years | 1,195 4.90% | 1,090 4.30% | 8.79% | 2,280 4.60% |
| 5 to 9 years | 1,110 4.60% | 1,100 4.30% | 0.90% | 2,215 4.50% |
| 85 years and over | 660 2.70% | 1,525 6.00% | 56.72% | 2,180 4.40% |
| 10 to 14 years | 1,055 4.40% | 1,030 4.00% | 2.37% | 2,085 4.20% |
| 0 to 4 years | 1,030 4.30% | 960 3.80% | 6.80% | 1,990 4.00% |
| 20 to 24 years | 1,005 4.20% | 940 3.70% | 6.47% | 1,945 3.90% |
| 15 to 19 years | 975 4.00% | 905 3.60% | 7.18% | 1,880 3.80% |
| 80 to 84 years | 785 3.20% | 1,075 4.20% | 26.98% | 1,860 3.70% |
| 85 to 89 years | 435 1.80% | 830 3.30% | 47.59% | 1,260 2.50% |
| 90 to 94 years | 180 0.70% | 520 2.00% | 65.38% | 705 1.40% |
| 95 to 99 years | 35 0.10% | 155 0.60% | 77.42% | 195 0.40% |
Broader Age Groups
If the city's population is divided into broader age groups, most of the population falls into the 15 to 64 years age group. The group accounts for 56.40% of the population. The other age groups, 65 years and over and 0 to 14 years, account for 30.90% and 12.70%, respectively.
If we look at the population data from the broader age groups, we can see that most people in Shawinigan are within the 15 to 64 years age group.
| Data | Male | Female | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 to 64 years | 58.20% | 54.70% | 56.40% |
| 65 years and over | 28.60% | 33.10% | 30.90% |
| 0 to 14 years | 13.20% | 12.20% | 12.70% |
Population of Shawinigan by Ethnicity and Origin
The population of Shawinigan is quite diverse, which contributes to the city's vibrant cultural landscape. Shawinigan is inclusive and accepts various ethnic groups with open arms. Furthermore, the city appreciates the unique contributions that each ethnicity brings.
The top 5 ethnicities and origins in Shawinigan are Canadian, which accounts for 45.51% of the total population, followed by French (19.96%), French Canadian (9.53%), Caucasian (White) (2.75%), and Irish (2.68%).
Other ethnicities and origins in Shawinigan include First Nations (North American Indian), European, English, Christian, n.i.e., and Italian.
| Ethnicity and Origin | Male | Female | Percentage in Population |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canadian | 45.08% | 45.93% | 45.51% |
| French | 20.61% | 19.35% | 19.96% |
| French Canadian | 9.17% | 9.88% | 9.53% |
| Caucasian (White) | 3.03% | 2.47% | 2.75% |
| Irish | 2.63% | 2.74% | 2.68% |
| First Nations (North American Indian) | 1.68% | 1.81% | 1.75% |
| European | 1.19% | 1.06% | 1.11% |
| English | 0.98% | 1.10% | 1.03% |
| Christian, n.i.e. | 1.02% | 0.93% | 1.00% |
| Italian | 1.08% | 0.85% | 0.97% |
Indigenous Identity in Shawinigan
About 1.73% of Shawinigan's population (825 people) identify with an Indigenous identity, compared to 98.27% who report a non-Indigenous identity.
Of the Indigenous population, 220 people (0.50% of the total population) hold Registered or Treaty Indian status.
Immigration Profile
Immigration patterns vary a great deal from one area to another, which makes this data one of the more distinctive parts of Shawinigan's population profile.
About 2.1% of Shawinigan's population are immigrants (1,015 people).
The top countries of origin for Shawinigan's immigrant population are France (230), Morocco (60), Haiti (45), United States of America (35), Algeria (30).
| Country of Birth | Population |
|---|---|
| France | 230 |
| Morocco | 60 |
| Haiti | 45 |
| United States of America | 35 |
| Algeria | 30 |
98.5% of Shawinigan's residents (46,935 people) are Canadian citizens, and 1.5% are not.
By generation status, 3.1% of residents are first generation (born outside Canada), 2.2% are second generation, and 94.7% are third generation or more.
Household and Dwelling Characteristics
About 12,495 of Shawinigan's population live in a single-detached house. In addition, most of them are living in 1 person household.
Household Size
About 22.05% of the population lives in 1 person households. 2 persons households ranked second, accounting for 18.40% of the population. 3 persons, 4 persons, and 5 or more persons households account for 4.60%, 3.20%, and 1.75%, respectively.
| Number of Person(s) in Household | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | 11,055 | 22.05% |
| 2 persons | 9,220 | 18.40% |
| 3 persons | 2,315 | 4.60% |
| 4 persons | 1,605 | 3.20% |
| 5 or more persons | 865 | 1.75% |
Family and Household Structure in Shawinigan
Of census families in Shawinigan, 83.0% are couple families and 17.0% are one-parent families. The average census family has 2.6 people.
44.1% of households in Shawinigan are one-person households, 42.6% are couple-family households, 8.2% are one-parent-family households, and 0.7% are multigenerational households.
| Household Type | Households | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| One-person households | 11,055 | 44.1% |
| Couple-family households | 10,670 | 42.6% |
| One-parent-family households | 2,050 | 8.2% |
| Multigenerational households | 165 | 0.7% |
Income in Shawinigan
Analyzing income distribution in Shawinigan can help us better understand its socioeconomic dynamics.
Per Capita Income
According to 2020 data, the median personal income within Shawinigan is $35,200.
A region's per capita data sheds light on the average income earned per person living in it. Since per capita income is calculated by dividing the region's total income by its population, it quantifies the population's economic situation on an individual basis.
Such data offers insights into the city's economic performance, spread of income across individuals, quality of life, as well as disparities within its borders.
Most of Shawinigan population or around 6,515 people falls in the $10,000 to $29,999 group. The next largest groups are the $30,000 to $49,999, and $50,000 to $79,999 with around 5,570 and 4,240 people, respectively.
Household Income
The Shawinigan's median household income is $53,600, according to 2020 data.
Below national average Shawinigan's median household income is 30,400 dollars below the Canadian national median of $84,000 (2020 data, 2021 Census).
The data provides important insights into the city's economic landscape as well as the living standards of its population.
Analyzing such data enables researchers, policymakers, and businesses to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the city's income distribution, disparities, and trends.
Education Levels in Shawinigan
This data sheds light on the distribution of Shawinigan residents across educational milestones.
Such information is crucial in shaping the province’s policies on education, workforce development strategies, and initiatives that aim to improve access to quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities.
64.00% or most of the Shawinigan population has a Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree. 19.90% of the population has a High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate, and 16.10% has a No certificate, diploma or degree. (Individual figures may not sum to exactly 100% due to Statistics Canada's random rounding of small-area 25% sample data.)
| Degree | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Postsecondary certificate, diploma or degree | 7,490 | 7,860 | 15,350 | 64.00% |
| High (secondary) school diploma or equivalency certificate | 2,295 | 2,480 | 4,780 | 19.90% |
| No certificate, diploma or degree | 2,045 | 1,805 | 3,855 | 16.10% |
Below national average 14.8% of Shawinigan's population has a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 32.9% (Canada, 2021 Census).
Employment in Shawinigan
This dataset provides a snapshot of employment trends in Shawinigan. It encompasses a wide range of sectors, industries, as well as job categories.
The data shows that the unemployment rate in Shawinigan is at 7.54% which is quite high.
| Status | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Employment rate | 48.19% |
| Unemployment rate | 7.54% |
Work Activity During the Reference Year
Of the population aged 15 and over in Shawinigan, 26.1% worked full year full time in the reference year, 26.4% worked part year and/or part time, and 47.6% did not work.
| Work Activity | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Worked full year full time | 10,785 | 26.1% |
| Worked part year and/or part time | 10,900 | 26.4% |
| Did not work | 19,665 | 47.6% |
Working as an Employee
The table shows the data on the total number of individuals in the city who work as an employee. The majority of Shawinigan's population (around 72.70%) are working permanent position as an employee.
Self-employed
In the city, there are 1,075 men and 1,075 women working as self-employed individuals, bringing the total number to 2,150.
| Status | Men | Women | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Self-employed | 1,075 | 1,075 | 2,150 |
Employment Industry Sectors
The Shawinigan industry employment sector census data offers insights into the region's economic landscape. The distribution of employment in Shawinigan is categorized and quantified, which reveals the region's economic composition.
Shawinigan has a wide range of industries. Most of its population (18%) works in the health care and social assistance sector. The Retail trade sector comes second at 14%, followed by Manufacturing at 13%.
| Industry | Men | Women | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health care and social assistance | 790 | 3,030 | 18% |
| Retail trade | 1,510 | 1,600 | 14% |
| Manufacturing | 2,055 | 685 | 13% |
| Public administration | 700 | 790 | 7% |
| Accommodation and food services | 645 | 815 | 7% |
| Construction | 1,315 | 140 | 7% |
| Educational services | 355 | 905 | 6% |
| Other services (except public administration) | 530 | 535 | 5% |
| Professional, scientific and technical services | 550 | 395 | 4% |
| Transportation and warehousing | 645 | 190 | 4% |
| Administrative and support, waste management and remediation services | 515 | 290 | 4% |
| Finance and insurance | 130 | 230 | 2% |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting | 225 | 95 | 2% |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 185 | 135 | 2% |
| Wholesale trade | 235 | 75 | 1% |
| Utilities | 180 | 35 | 1% |
| Real estate and rental and leasing | 125 | 70 | 1% |
| Information and cultural industries | 135 | 50 | 1% |
| Mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction | 85 | 10 | 0% |
| Management of companies and enterprises | 0 | 0 | 0% |
Labour Market Snapshot
A quick snapshot of where Shawinigan residents work — the leading industry sectors employing them, and the broad occupation categories they work in.
Top employer sectors in Shawinigan: Health care and social assistance (18%), Retail trade (14%), Manufacturing (13%)
Top occupation categories in Shawinigan: Sales and service occupations (28%), Trades, transport and equipment operators and related occupations (18%), Business, finance and administration occupations (13%)
Places of Work
The data offers insights into the commuting patterns as well as workplace distribution in the city. It provides a snapshot of workplaces, showing their geographic distribution and the flow of workers across different areas.
| Work Location | Men | Women | Total | Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Usual place of work | 7,460 | 7,660 | 15,120 | 75.90% |
| Worked at home | 1,225 | 1,545 | 2,765 | 13.90% |
| No fixed workplace address | 1,560 | 420 | 1,980 | 9.90% |
| Worked outside Canada | 45 | 15 | 65 | 0.30% |
Commuting
The data sheds light on how Shawinigan residents travel to school or work. It highlights the frequency of different modes of transportation like walking, cycling, carpooling, and public transit.
The data is pivotal in the making of transportation policies as well as the development of transit systems. Ultimately commuting data contributes to improving the quality of life of Shawinigan residents and sustainable urban planning.
Commuting Duration
This data reveals the average time that the residents of Shawinigan spend traveling to their workplaces. It also sheds light on the efficiency of the city's public transit systems, and road networks, as well as the accessibility of the city.
| Duration | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Less than 15 minutes | 45.20% |
| 15 to 29 minutes | 30.90% |
| 30 to 44 minutes | 15.40% |
| 45 to 59 minutes | 4.50% |
| 60 minutes and over | 4.00% |
Marital Status
The statistics on marital status in Shawinigan shed light on its societal dynamics. It captures the diverse types of marital statuses of the population.
Long-term commitments, such as common-law partnerships, civil unions, and marriages, reflect the city's social fabric. We can gain insights into Shawinigan's changing preferences and norms by examining the trends in marital status.
Language Spoken
The data below highlights city's linguistic diversity, showing elegances of solo language as well as bilingual harmonies. Other than language, it also shows the cultural landscape in Canada.
French is the most spoken official language in Shawinigan. About 47,720 people living in the city speak French, 625 people speak English, 220 people speak English and French language, and 80 people speak Neither English nor French language.
| Language | Population |
|---|---|
| French | 47,720 |
| English | 625 |
| English and French | 220 |
| Neither English nor French | 80 |
Knowledge of Official Languages
About 24.9% of Shawinigan's population is bilingual, knowing both English and French. 0.2% know English only, 74.8% know French only, and 0.2% know neither official language.
| Knowledge of Official Languages | Population | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| English only | 95 | 0.2% |
| French only | 36,360 | 74.8% |
| English and French | 12,095 | 24.9% |
| Neither English nor French | 90 | 0.2% |
Mother Tongue & Home Language
Useful for newcomers researching an area: this shows the language residents first learned at home in childhood (mother tongue) and the language they speak most often at home now, which can differ as families settle in.
| Language | Mother Tongue | Spoken Most Often at Home |
|---|---|---|
| French | 96.5% | 97.5% |
| Non-official languages | 1.4% | 0.6% |
| English | 1.2% | 0.9% |
Religion
Shawinigan is predominantly Christian. About 35,630 of its population is Christian (17,105 males and 18,525 females).
The second largest religion in the city is Muslim with 0.5% of the population adhering to the religion. There are also Buddhist and Hindu, both represent 0.2% and 0.1% of the population, while Jewish represent 0.0% of the population.
| Religion | Population |
|---|---|
| Christian | 74.8% |
| Islam | 0.5% |
| Buddhist | 0.2% |
| Hindu | 0.1% |
| Jewish | 0.0% |
| Sikh | 0.0% |
Nearest Cities to Shawinigan
- Trois-Rivieres 27.1 km · 139,163 people
- Saint-Hyacinthe 102.5 km · 57,239 people
- Repentigny 104.7 km · 86,100 people
- Terrebonne 116.0 km · 119,944 people
- Quebec 121.6 km · 549,459 people
- Levis 123.6 km · 149,683 people
- Longueuil 125.8 km · 254,483 people
- Saint-Jerome 128.3 km · 80,213 people
Frequently Asked Questions about Shawinigan
According to the 2021 Statistics Canada Census, Shawinigan has a population of 49,620 people, making it the 22nd city in Quebec. The population increased slightly from 49,349 in 2016, an increase of 271 people or 0.55%. The city has a population density of 68.0 people per km² across a land area of 729.98 km². The 2026 Census results are expected from Statistics Canada beginning February 2027.
Shawinigan's population grew by 0.55% between the 2016 and 2021 censuses — from 49,349 to 49,620 people, a gain of 271 residents. This modest growth reflects patterns seen in many other Quebec cities during this period. The median age of 54.40 years suggests an aging population. The relatively high proportion of one-person households (44.1%) may indicate young adults leaving for larger centres. Official 2026 Census data, which will confirm whether this trend continued, is expected from Statistics Canada in February 2027.
Shawinigan has a population density of approximately 68.00 people per square kilometre.
Shawinigan covers a land area of approximately 729.98 km².
The median age of the population in Shawinigan is 54.40 years.
The largest ethnic or cultural origin group in Shawinigan is Canadian.
The median household income in Shawinigan is $53,600, based on 2020 data.
French is the most common first official language spoken in Shawinigan.
Christian is the predominant religion in Shawinigan.
According to the 2021 Census, 1.7% of Shawinigan's population identifies with an Indigenous identity.
98.5% of Shawinigan's residents are Canadian citizens, based on 2021 Census data.
One-parent families make up 17.0% of census families in Shawinigan, according to the 2021 Census.
Multigenerational households make up 0.7% of all households in Shawinigan, per the 2021 Census.
24.9% of Shawinigan's population knows both English and French, based on 2021 Census data on knowledge of official languages.
Of the population aged 15 and over in Shawinigan, 26.1% worked full year full time in the 2021 Census reference year.
Statistics Canada (statcan.gc.ca) conducted the 2026 Census of Population in May 2026. However, census data goes through an extensive processing, validation, and quality-assurance period before public release. Based on the release plan, the 2026 Census results begin rolling out on February 10, 2027, with complete community-level profiles available by December 1, 2027. Until then, this page uses 2021 Census data as its primary source, supplemented by a population projection estimate for 2026 calculated using the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from the 2016–2021 Census period.